“Prof. Burnett has been caught cheating for a third time, and this seems to be the final straw for her husband, Prof. Kukui,” a newswoman spoke, a slight smirk on her face mixed with a serious look.

On the screen, a picture of two people took up a section of the upper right corner. To the left was an older, but good looking, healthy man in a white cap with a rainbow on it and a white lab coat that was open, revealing a powerful upper body. He had a big smile on his face.

A woman was also smiling beside him, her skin almost as pale, or maybe just as pale, as her white hair. She also looked aged, but also in good shape and health considering that. She was a slim woman in a pink tank top.

“After the first scandal involving another man, Prof. Burnett was forgiven after claiming both intoxication and that the man, previous Gym Leader Brock, had misled her into thinking he was Prof. Kukui,” the news went on. “A heated lawsuit had Brock defending himself, saying he was unaware of who Burnett was due to his own intoxication, and insisted he never claimed to be another man and was in fact the one being hit on. Brock was infuriated at the hit to his reputation over this and fought tooth and nail for the sake of his long respected Gym. Never once denying the affair happened, he only wished for the truth about why it happened to be made clear. The lawsuit was eventually settled out of court.”

Geez, what a... Gary just shook his head. That’s so sad. Crazy. He looked from the hanging flatscreen TV in the building, to the floor. I can’t let this distract me. I’ve got a three-on-three Pokemon battle coming up against Aly. A freaking three-on-three! At the League! Gary was getting angry, and he could feel it becoming tears. It’s not fair! Three-on-three?! Me versus Aly?! How is that right?? Gary closed his eyes and shook his head. It was supposed to be all of us at the top four... With no Kiwi... it still shoulda been us at top three! Sheesh, at least in the Full Battles!!

“And now, the next battle of the Indigo League is about to begin!!” the voice from an announcer boomed throughout the building.

Gary gasped and jumped to his feet. “This is it!” He took off.

“Good luck, Gary!”

“Good luck!”

“Do your best!”

Gary waved at the voices from those behind booths. He looked back to show them his smile, not wanting to be rude. “Thank you!” he called, and ran down an empty, dark hallway with a lit up opening at the end. He swallowed as he got closer to the light. There’s no turning back. Aly is DONE!

“And here comes our two Trainers, both representing Pallet Town!!” the announcer burst out. “The Red Trainer, Gary, facing off against the Green Trainer, Alyssa Say! This is going to be a right hometown showdown! It is highly likely these two know each other! This match will settle some scores for certain! May the best Pallet Town representative win!”

The weather was so beautiful, a gentle breeze blowing the warm, clean, fresh air around.

Gary walked the dirt field. There was no rising platform for him this time.

Aly was on her way over as well, stopping several seconds after Gary.

The two Pallet Town Trainers glared at each other.

“You’re cray cray if you think you’re gonna beat me, Gary!” Aly leered. “I’ll lose to anyone else before you!”

She’s trying to act tough, Gary realized, not changing his expression. She’s usually a pain being tough. But now, she’s acting tough. She’s not being herself. She can’t possibly beat me like this! Who’s gonna send out the first Pokemon, though?

“This match is between Alyssa Say of Pallet Town, and Gary, also of Pallet Town,” the referee announced. His hair covered most of his face. He wore a gray hoodie, the hood down, and black jeans with white sneakers. He raised the red flag to Gary, the green flag at Aly. “BEGIN!”

Aly grabbed a Poke Ball and tossed it. “Let’s do this, Hydreigon!!”

The Poke Ball opened, revealing the beast within.

Gary’s mouth dropped and he took two steps back. Shit! Gary cursed, both at the Pokemon, but mostly at the fact he showed his fear.

“Hydreigon!” the monster rasped loudly at him.

Hydreigon. The Brutal Pokemon. The evolved form of Zweilous. Hydreigon is a vicious Pokemon, seen as unstoppable in many cultures in the region where it is from. All three heads are used to eat anything and destroy everything, but only one head has an actual brain. Research into the workings of this Pokemon are difficult and dangerous due to its ferocious attitude. Please exercise caution.

Gary gaped at his Pokedex. Was that a warning?? I’ve heard plenty of scary things about Pokemon from this thing, but that almost sounded a little too... live! Gary pondered. Right! He put away his Pokedex and faced the Pokemon.

“Ready to quit already?” Aly smiled. “It’d be wise for you, I’ll tell you that! I’ll also tell you it’d be great to see that cutie Kingdra again!” Her last sentence ended in a squeal as she raised her clasped hands to her face.

Gary grabbed a Poke Ball. “Just so happens I was thinking about just that!” he smiled. “Kingdra, I choose you!” He threw her Poke Ball.

“DOOOOO! DOOOOO!” Kingdra bounced in place once out.

“It’s Dragon versus Dragon, with a couple of added types to really make this round an interesting one!” the announcer said upon seeing the first two choices. “The start of this is already out of this world!!”

“How cuuuuute!” Aly clapped her hands. “It’s too bad I have to defeat such a sweetie! How dare you send out such an innocent soul!” Aly frowned at Gary.

Oh, shut up, will ya? Gary thought impatiently. Nervously. Who’s gonna go first? I have to go first! “Use Yawn, Kingdra!”

“Hydreigon, use Charge Beam!”

Both Trainers gave their orders at the same time.

A yellow, sparking ball formed between Hydreigon’s three heads.

Kingdra sent out multiple clear bubbles.

A yellow bolt of Electricity fired out and tore through the Yawn attack, striking Kingdra.

Kingdra screamed out as she was electrified. She shook off the damage as it finished.

Hydreigon glowed red for a bit.

Charge Beam. The user sends out a jolt of Electricity at the opponent, the leftover energy having a fair chance of increasing the user’s Special Attack.

Gary watched Hydreigon in shock. Oh, no... She’s really starting off strong with that! “Kingdra, Focus Energy!”

“DOOO!” Kingdra’s body glowed white for a moment.

“Charge Beam!” Aly repeated.

Hydreigon used its attack again to blast Kingdra.

“Dooo!” Kingdra cried out painfully but kept a strong face, glaring at Hydreigon.

Hydreigon glowed red again.

“The Green Trainer, Alyssa, is putting the battle immediately in her favor, setting up complete control with Charge Beam, which has a big chance of boosting the Special Attack Stat!” the announcer began his commentary. “Gary, the Red Trainer, has had little opportunity to catch up to these boosts and fight back!”

“Charge Beam again!” Aly screamed.

Gary gasped. “Kingdra!” His mind blanked.

“DOOOOO!” Kingdra wailed out and finally fell over.

Hydreigon’s body went red.

“KINGDRA! NOOOO! GET UP!!” Gary yelled.

Kingdra did get up. “Doo! Doo, Doo, Doo!”

“Kingdra, it’s our turn! Dragon Pulse!” Gary ordered.

“Dragon Pulse right back!” Aly responded.

Both Pokemon charged a purple beam of energy up, Kingdra’s in front of her snout, Hydreigon’s in front of the mouth of the middle head. The beams fired, but Hydreigon’s annihilated Kingdra’s and took down the Dragon type.

Gary was shaking, staring down at his fallen Pokemon. “KINGDRA! PLEASE! DON’T GIVE IN!! We can’t lose this!”

Trembling, Kingdra got up, leaning over.

“I’ve told you about pushing your Pokemon too hard, Gary!” Aly crossed her arms.

“You’re not the one losing, are you?!” Gary snapped, losing his temper. “We’re not done until we’re done! And this is far from over!!”

Aly narrowed her eyes at him. “Your lack of compassion will keep you from being a true Pokemon Trainer!”

“Your lack of knowing how to raise Pokemon to their best is gonna keep you from ever becoming a Pokemon Master!” Gary countered. There’s not too many choices I have here, with her so powered up, Gary realized, trying to think of another way to attack Hydreigon.

“Charge Beam again!” Aly decided.

Again?? She’s still trying to boost! “SMOKESCREEN!”

Hydreigon fired another Charge Beam.

Kingdra covered the field in purple smoke, hiding herself.

There was a scream from Kingdra.

Oh, no! Gary panicked. I can’t stop, whether she got hit or not! He stared at Hydreigon for a second. It’s not glowing. Did it miss, or they just get unlucky by not getting a boost? “DRAGON PULSE!”

“DOOOOOOO!”

A purple beam shot through the thick smoke and hit Hydreigon who was hovering above it.

“Hyyyyydreigoooon!!” Hydreigon rasped as it was forced backwards by the hit.

“Hydreigon, Dragon Pulse! You can do it!” Aly insisted.

“Kingdra, stay clear and use Smokescreen again! Keep yourself protected!” Gary told her.

More purple smoke filled the field and Hydreigon launched Dragon Pulse.

An explosion was not seen due to the smoke, and a shout came from Kingdra.

That wasn’t a pained sound! Gary smiled. Kingdra’s okay! She’s dodging! Gary wished he could see Aly’s face through all the smoke, but he also appreciated what it meant.

Hydreigon wasn’t able to see his Pokemon, either.

“Gary has switched the game upside down and is now using Smokescreen to make those oh so powerful moves not hit!” the announcer was praising. “No matter how powerful you may be, if you don’t hit the target, it means nothing!”

“Man, that guy is so annoying!” Gary could hear Aly complain.

“I can hear that, young lady!” the announcer responded.

Aly gasped. “OH!”

Now I really wish I could see her face! Gary snickered. Anyway... We hit harder with a Dragon move from a Dragon type, but there’s a good opportunity if this goes right! “ICE BEAM!”

Kingdra used Ice Beam.

“Hydreigon! Dragon Pulse!”

Hydreigon’s move went first, disappearing into the smoke and exploding.

“DOOOOO!” A light blue beam fired out of the smoke from the ground.

Hydreigon was hit in the stomach! Ice was coating its body as it yelled out.

The smoke was clearing up a bit, but not entirely.

Kingdra was visible now, as well as Aly.

The female Trainer had a shocked look on her face. This look went away for a more focused appearance and she nodded. “Move from Sunny Day to Fire Blast, NOW!”

“HYYYYYYYYYDREIIII!!” Hydreigon shouted out, looking up to the sun as the Ice continued covering the huge body.

The temperature rose drastically, the sun beaming stronger than before.

Gary removed his jacket in the heat, his skin prickling and itching. He rubbed at his arms.

“HYYYYYYYYYYY!!!” Hydreigon immediately went into a Fire Blast attack!

“HYDRO PUMP!!” Gary chose.

The Fire Blast passed the forming Ice around Hydreigon’s body, melting the Ice into falling water! The move met with Kingdra’s Hydro Pump, and then pushed through!

“DOOOO!” Kingdra leaped out of the way at the last second, avoiding the hot move.

“Alyssa has done the incredible!!” the announcer’s voice boomed. “By using Sunny Day to increase the heat, and the power of Fire Blast, she got rid of the Ice forming around Hydreigon and still launched one vicious attack!! Under Sunny Day, Fire moves are more powerful, but Water moves are made weak, making even a great move like Hydro Pump, useless against Fire Blast!! Gary is lucky Kingdra was able to avoid that hit, or it could have left a crucial impression!”

She knew I’d use a Water move against Fire Blast, Gary realized. She thought so far ahead as to use Fire Blast under a Sunny Day to trick me into using a Water move against her so she’d be sure to overpower it. Not to mention, her Special Attack boosts don’t help me overcome her. Is this really Aly? Has she really grown to think like this? I’m just... so impressed! Am I giving her too much credit? Maybe she didn’t think that far and it just happened this way.

“Alright, let’s switch it up! Dragon Rush!” Aly said.

“Dragon Pulse!” Gary said.

A blue, dragon-shaped energy covered Hydreigon’s body and it dove at Kingdra as she attacked with Dragon Pulse.

“HYYYYYYYYYYYY!!” Hydreigon roared, struggling to force through Kingdra’s attack. An area at its body flashed white, and the energy around it slid off, disappearing, exposing the Pokemon. “DREEEEIIIGOOOOOOOOOOOOOOONNN!!!” It roared louder as it was forced back by the Dragon Pulse and finally slid along the ground. Hydreigon didn’t move.

“And Kingdra’s Focus Energy finally kicks in, causing a higher percentage of Critical Hits!!!” the announcer was saying. “This sounds incredible, but it would appear that due to Alyssa going for a physical move like Dragon Rush, rather than a Special move like Dragon Pulse, may have been the advantage Gary needed!! With all the Special Attack boosts Alyssa was getting, her Special Attack is a devastating one right now, but there’s been no boost to her Attack power!! With two Dragon moves facing off just now, it was all about who had the most power, and since a Critical Hit is all about hitting the sweet spot on the opponent, Alyssa deciding to rush in close with Dragon Rush, opened up a spot for Kingdra to land that hit on the body it needed, overpowering even Dragon Rush, and taking down Hydreigon!!!”

The crowd was going absolutely insane over this.

“Wow, Gary. Did you really think that up?” Aly squinted at him. “Or did I just slip up by using Dragon Rush?”

“Maybe Sunny Day is frying your brain,” Gary smirked at her.

Aly sneered but wiped at her forehead. “This weather must be perfect for your dry sense of humor!” Aly shot back. “Charge Beam!”

“Dragon Pulse!”

Both Pokemon attacked at once.

Both moves fought against each other in midair. Charge Beam finally forced its way through Dragon Pulse and zapped Kingdra.

As Hydreigon glowed red once more, Kingdra collapsed.

Gary shook his head, his eyes going from Kingdra to Hydreigon, where they stopped. It’s too powerful now!

“Hydreigon gets its fourth Special Attack boost!!” the announcer informed everyone. “If that Pokemon isn’t stopped, I predict that it’s gonna make easy work of the rest of Gary’s team! I hope Gary has something secured, for his own sake!”

Gary’s fists were tight, forcing his arms and legs to be stiff as he struggled to keep from trembling. His chest was hurting the way his heart was beating on it. The blazing sun wasn’t helping him in any way, either. “KINGDRA! Are you okay? Please get up! I know you can do it! We have to FIGHT!”

Kingdra shivered on the ground. “Dooo...” she whispered weakly.

“Kingdra is unable to battle!! Hydreigon is the winner!!” the judge determined.

The crowd exploded in cheers so loud, Gary didn’t even hear himself shriek, “WWWHHAAAAAAAAT????!!!”

“AND THAT’S IT, FOLKS!! After a very impressive back and forth of moves from both sides of Pallet Town, the winner of the two Dragons is revealed to be Hydreigon!!” the announcer shouted, arguably not even as loud as the crowd was being. “This is astounding!! How is Gary going to come back after that one?! Hydreigon has gotten to the point where defeat is going to be one mighty trick to pull for all to see!!”

“Kingdra...” Gary whispered sadly.

“Sorry, Kingdraaaaa!!” Aly called out, cupping her hands around her mouth, the smoke finally cleared. “We can be friends, thoooough! I LOVE YOOOOOUUUU!!” She was smiling at Gary’s Pokemon, but then she looked to the Trainer more seriously. “One down. Two more to go!”

Gary nodded. “Kingdra, you pulled through and did a lot before the end. Don’t worry, we’ve got this for sure!” He returned her and grabbed his second Poke Ball. “I can’t deny, you’re really good, Aly!” he smiled and nodded at her. He made the Poke Ball in his hand grow larger. “But this ends right here, Aly!” He threw the Poke Ball. “CHARIZAAARRD!!”

Charizard appeared and stretched out his wings. He let out a huge roar and shot flames into the sky that were brighter and more powerful than normal thanks to Sunny Day.

“And Gary keeps up tradition with... sort of a Dragon!” the announcer laughed. “It’s now Charizard versus Hydreigon! Does Charizard have the heat boost from Sunny Day to overpower the Stat boost Hydreigon is killing this battle with?!”

Heat boost... Gary pondered. Fire moves on a Dragon type won’t mean a lot, but in Sunny Day, while it still is up, should I go for it? A Dragon move... Dragon Claw. Dragon Pulse. Which?

“Hydreigon, Dragon Pulse!” Aly jumped in.

“Dragon Pulse right back!” Gary demanded. I need to stop choosing so slowly!

Both Pokemon attacked.

Hydreigon’s Dragon Pulse split Charizard’s and collided with his middle.

Charizard groaned and was toppled over.

“CHARIZARD, GET UP!!” Gary couldn’t believe it! “USE DRAGON CLAW!!” Just maybe, a physical move will do better, like when Hydreigon did Dragon Rush.

Charizard stood up quickly and roared. He flew at Hydreigon with glowing, light blue claws.

“Crunch attack!” Aly called out.

Hydreigon’s middle head’s teeth glowed white. It flew for Charizard!

Charizard swung on Hydreigon with one claw.

Hydreigon grabbed the claw with its glowing fangs.

Charizard roared in pain and used his other claw to swipe at the middle head.

Snarling in pain, Hydreigon released Charizard and fell back, landing on the ground.

“FIRE BLAST, NOW!!” Gary pointed.

Charizard sent out a huge blaze of heat that pressed against Hydreigon’s body.

Hydreigon roared, its three heads to the sky. The heads then hit the ground together.

“Hydreigon is unable to battle! Charizard wins!” The referee raised the red flag to Gary.

“AND CHARIZARD DEFEATS HYDREIGON!! Using the boost of Hydreigon’s Sunny Day in fact benefitted Charizard to put the added pressure of a not very effective Fire type move on a resistant Dragon type, and Gary wins the battle!! Alyssa is now down one Pokemon and is going to be facing a boosted opponent, but Gary overcame his, so who knows who has the next victory!”

The sun started to lessen in brightness and heat, and soon, the temperature was back to normal.

“Oh, damn,” Aly sucked her teeth. “It’s gone already. Hydreigon, thanks a lot for your hard work! Come on back!” She returned Hydreigon and went for the second option, tossing her Poke Ball. “Mighty Ivy, come on out!”

The Pokemon was revealed.

There were cries of shock from the audience.

Gary gasped.

Charizard’s eyes widened as he let out a surprised cry.

“Ivysaur!” Ivysaur let out angrily, growling.

“And... Um... Wow! Folks, this is one perplexing choice, but Alyssa has chosen to send out an Ivysaur against an opponent like Charizard!” The announcer sounded like he couldn’t believe what he was seeing. “I’ve seen numerous battles and wins against the odds at this tournament, and many before it, so I shouldn’t have any doubts, especially when the chosen Pokemon was intentional, but this is a win I just have to see!”

“Ivysaur, Aly? Are you serious??” Gary called to her.

Aly smiled.

“You know you can’t retreat, right? That means your Pokemon is out of the match!”

“You’re gonna wish I did that after we win this one! Use Sweet Scent!”

“Ivy!” Ivysaur sprayed a pink powder out of her bulb, filling up the field.

“Charizard, Fire Blast!” Gary told his Pokemon.

Charizard inhaled for his move, but rather than ending up continuing to attack, he was now sniffing the Sweet Scent! A smile came over his face and he swayed in place.

“CHARIZARD! NO!” Gary yelled.

“Now use Solar Beam!”

“IVY!!” Ivysaur charged at Charizard and her body started glowing gold.

“Oh, DAMN IT!!” Aly screamed. “NOT DOUBLE-EDGE!!”

Ivysaur continued charging at Charizard.

She’s still not listening to Aly? Even at the League?? Gary thought. “Charizard, wake up! Fire Blast, now!!”

Charizard let out what sounded like a purr, still smiling stupidly. His eyes closed. They then popped open as Ivysaur tackled him down, leaving him on his back.

Ivysaur sparked and flinched, suffering from recoil damage.

Charizard got up and shook his head.

Gary sputtered out, as if spitting out the Sweet Scent, a sweet taste in his mouth along with a light scent up his nose. “CHARIZARD!!”

Charizard growled at Ivysaur.

“Fire Blast!!”

“Ivysaur, use Protect!”

Charizard attacked with Fire Blast.

Ivysaur crouched down, her back half raised, her bulb tip aimed at Charizard. A seed flew out.

“Leech Seed?!” Aly cried. “IVYSAUR!”

Charizard’s Fire Blast consumed Leech Seed, destroying it, and Ivysaur was hit.

“IVYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!” Ivysaur screamed as she tumbled along the ground and laid out on her stomach.

That’s it! Gary smiled, raising a fist.

But Ivysaur leaped right back up!

Gary’s eyes widened. Oh, really? I guess she didn’t send this one out thinking she’d go down that fast... But, why did she choose her?

Aly was smiling at Gary.

Gary shook his head at her. “She still doesn’t listen, huh? And you wanna talk about how I raise my Pokemon??”

“We have slight differences, nothing more!” she glared at him. “You won’t beat us! Get ready for a major embarrassment! Use Growth!”

A purple, sparkling powder was released from Ivysaur’s bulb, green sparkles in the midst of it.

“Poison Powder! Charizard, use Flamethrower to burn it all away!” Gary stated.

“Ivysaaaauurrr!” Aly complained.

Charizard attacked, blasting at the Poison Powder.

Much of the Poison Powder was removed, but a few sparkles remained.

Charizard finished his attack and breathed in. His eyes widened and he started choking! Soon, his face was flushed purple!

“Charizard?!” Gary couldn’t believe it! “CHARIZAAAARD!!”

“This match has started off just about as controversial as it could get! Alyssa’s Ivysaur’s Sweet Scent set the stage, unbalancing Charizard at first!” the announcer was heard. “Ivysaur seems to be not listening to its Trainer and is using moves not directed! Nevertheless, Ivysaur has managed to get off a few moves, and Poison Powder has left the biggest impact on Charizard!”

I can’t lose to this disobedient thing! Gary frowned. There’s no way! Gary’s eyes suddenly widened, thinking about June’s disobedient, undefeated Electivire. No... Electivire... Gary’s teeth tightened against each other and his eyebrows narrowed, his eyes squinting at Ivysaur. “Charizard, we end this with Fire Blast, NOW!”

Charizard growled, his face matching Gary’s, and he took in a deep breath, ready to breathe out Fire at Ivysaur.

“Ivysaur, Protect!” Aly urged.

“Ivy!” Ivysaur instead shot out a pair of vines. They wrapped around Charizard’s neck!

Charizard choked out in surprise, along with his Trainer!

“What?!” Gary gasped.

Charizard was choking for air, unable to use his attack!

“NO WAY!!!” the announcer exploded. “Ivysaur has stopped Charizard’s devastating attack by choking the powerful force at the source!!”

She’s still not listening! Gary knew. But she’s winning on her own! I won’t lose to that thing! There’s no way! I can’t! “CHARIZARD!! Get those vines off of you!!”

Charizard raised his claws.

“Ivysaur!!” Ivysaur leaped into the air and her vines put pressure on Charizard’s thin neck.

Charizard was forced down headfirst.

I can’t believe this! Gary watched with a gaping mouth. An Ivysaur just can’t beat a Charizard!

Ivysaur’s vines finally released Charizard and she landed.

“GET UP!!” Gary insisted.

Charizard did manage back up slowly.

“Incredible as it may seem, Ivysaur is putting a lot of work in on Charizard!” the announcer stated. “I wouldn’t believe any Ivysaur would have withstood the heat of Fire Blast! But this Ivysaur is going above and beyond, and I honestly believe it will put up a fair fight if Gary doesn’t start doing what’s needed to win!”

What’s that supposed to mean?? Gary glared upward, trying to see whoever it was who was speaking. Screw it. He gave up and stared at Ivysaur. “Charizard, enough is enough! We’ll win this match!”

“Don’t think so!” Aly interrupted. “Solar Beam!”

“Ivysaur!!” Ivysaur crouched, her back end raised, the bulb pointed to Charizard. White dots of energy were drawn to her bulb.

Gary froze. I have a free turn to attack... he thought. Fly! I can dodge that altogether! He opened his mouth and then smiled. His teeth connected. “Use Sky Drop RIGHT NOW!!”

Charizard flew to Ivysaur and swooped her up, carrying her to the sky.

Ivysaur’s attack stopped as she was carried!

Charizard’s eyes closed and he slowed down for a second before continuing higher, faster, and then stopping.

Ivysaur was looking down angrily.

Charizard was breathing hard. He then dropped back down, flying with determination on his face. Right before meeting with the ground, Charizard flew forward and released Ivysaur.

“Ivyyyyyy!!” Ivysaur screamed as she bounced along the ground.

Charizard landed, his back now to Aly. He flinched from his continuing Poisoning.

This is bad. The Poisoning! Gary thought. This could be the difference between a win and a loss!

Ivysaur got up from her sprawled position and growled at Charizard, lowering herself closer to the ground.

“Ivysaur, I sent you out because I know your heart! Your desire! Charizard is nothing to you! I want to work with you, though!” Aly pleaded. “Please, let’s win together! Trust me! Trust me, Ivysaur! Use Return!”

Return? A move whose power is based on how much the Pokemon cares for the Trainer! Gary remembered. Why is she going with that? This is no time to be testing out the relationship with your Pokemon! I can’t lose to someone who battles like this!!

After a couple of seconds, Ivysaur began charging for Charizard.

Gary froze, watching Aly’s Pokemon. Watching carefully.

Ivysaur leaped for a hit, aiming at Charizard’s chest.

There’s no way the bond is there for this move to matter, Gary sneered. “Strength attack! Toss that thing!”

A red aura surrounded Charizard. He roared and reached out. He caught Ivysaur in both claws! Immediately, he flung her above him, into the air!!

“Ivyyyyyyyy!!” Ivysaur shouted angrily as she ascended.

“Now end this already! Fire Blast!!” Gary shouted desperately.

Charizard roared and inhaled.

“VINE WHIP!!” Aly screamed out.

“IVY!!” Ivysaur sent out a pair of Vines swiftly, but it was so close to when Aly gave the command that Gary couldn’t tell if she had listened or acted on her own again.

The Vines wrapped around Charizard’s throat.

Charizard choked out again, his attack stopped.

This is bull! Gary kept to himself angrily. But so familiar...

The Grass Gym Leader, Vincent, had his Venusaur use Vine Whip as Charmeleon’s jaws opened for Flamethrower. The Vines snapped them shut before any Fire could come out.

*

“YOUR TAIL!!!” Gary shouted.

Charmeleon waved his flame lit tail around Aly’s Ivysaur’s vines that were wrapped around his jaws.

The vines caught on fire quickly and Ivysaur screamed out, letting go of Charmeleon, waving her flaming vines high in the air. She ran around in circles, screaming in a panic.

“OPEN THOSE JAWS AND USE FIRE FANG!!” Gary burst out.

Charizard opened his jaws and they became covered in flames. He bit into the Vines.

“Ivy??” Ivysaur’s eyes widened as her Vines were set on fire, the flames trailing down them and towards her! She released Charizard and her Vines waved wildly in the air.

It worked! Gary smiled.

“IVYSAUR! Like we practiced! Vine Whip the ground!!” Aly said sternly.

“Ivy!” Ivysaur’s face became as hardened as her Trainer’s. She started smacking her burning Vines at the ground! Her Vines Whipped the ground repeatedly until the fire was gone! The blackened vines were pulled back into the bulb.

“And Ivysaur looked to be in a bad place for a moment there, folks! But Alyssa has kept a cool head in the face of fire and kept her Pokemon safe!” the announcer commented.

“FIRE BLAST!!” Gary ordered.

Charizard flinched in pain.

“SOLAR BEAM!!” Aly threw in.

Ivysaur began the move again, white dots of energy being absorbed into her bulb.

“CHARIZAAAAAARD!!” Gary bellowed at his suffering Pokemon.

“It looks like Charizard’s Poisoning might just be the moment Ivysaur needs to charge up a Solar Beam and put an end to the fully evolved, Fire and Flying type brute!” the announcer chimed in.

It won’t be. It can’t be! Gary thought with fury, baring his teeth. “This is ridiculous! FIRE BLAST!!”

Charizard straightened up and roared, using Fire Blast!

Ivysaur’s flower glowed white as she fired with Solar Beam!

Both moves met in midair.

Fire Blast took over and engulfed Solar Beam, and then Ivysaur herself.

“IVYYYYY!!” Ivysaur yelled out, taken off her feet.

“IVYYYYYYY!!” Aly yelled with her.

When the blaze was over, Ivysaur was sprawled out on her side, her eyes closed, not moving.

The red flag was raised by the referee. “Ivysaur is unable to battle! Charizard is the winner!!”

The crowd’s screams were deafening.

Gary’s heart was in his throat. He was ready to vomit, his phobia of it being the only thing that kept it down. He was trembling.

Aly’s mouth was wide open.

“Charizard proves itself by not going down and defeating Alyssa’s Ivysaur!!” the announcer was screaming. “Alyssa’s Ivysaur has proven itself in a number of impressive battles previously, but Charizard and Gary were not having it! Charizard’s type advantage and straight power, and let’s not disregard some definite will, were far too much for Ivysaur this match in a pretty close round!”

Gary took in a deep breath and swallowed. His breath then came out.

“Mighty Ivy...” Aly spoke softly. Her eyes closed as she nodded with a smile. “You did so well, and we’ll win this because of you!” When her eyes opened on Gary, her eyebrows narrowed. “This match is a team effort! Rest and support us in our finale!” She returned Ivysaur and stared at Charizard. With a nod, she grabbed a Poke Ball. Her arm extended. “Breloom, please come out!”

The creature was little, shorter than Charizard but a little taller than Ivysaur. It punched outwards with both hands, looking ready for combat.

“And Alyssa is surely a stubborn one, opting to go with yet another Grass type as her final Pokemon against Charizard! I know it’s weak, but Charizard is still looking like it could leave some lasting effects if used right! I don’t know what Alyssa has up her sleeve!” the announcer threw out there.

“I guess you’re ready to lose, huh?” Gary teased, wanting to smirk to show friendly competitiveness, but he couldn’t. He knew all he had to do was beat this Grass type Pokemon, but he also knew he couldn’t take things lightly. He knew he was only one Pokemon away from victory, but Charizard was weak, and anything could happen. “Charizard, no games! Fire Blast! End this now!”

Charizard attacked with Fire Blast.

Breloom cried out and ducked, covering its head.

The Fire Blast swept right over it.

Damn it, Gary thought, growling out loud. We missed.

“Breloom, please relax and use your Dynamic Punch!” Aly demanded.

Breloom raised a fist and yelled out as the fist started to glow light blue. From such a far distance, his little arm swung on Charizard, but extended a LOT further than Gary had expected.

Charizard was also not ready, surprise on his face as he was hit and sent flying backwards. He slid on the dirt ground and then went still.

“CHARIZARD!!” Gary started.

“Charizard is unable to battle!” the referee ruled.

“CHARIZARD!!!” Gary choked from how hard he yelled as he stepped forward and then stopped to look at the referee in shock.

“Breloom is the winner of this round!” The referee raised the green flag to Aly.

“AND CHARIZARD HAS BEEN TAKEN DOWN!! The combination of Poison and Dynamic Punch was just too strong!! Alyssa’s faith in her Pokemon proves to be just enough, at least for the weakened, Poisoned Charizard, to defeat it! But Gary can still fight back with his final Pokemon if he, well, plays it smart with type advantage, or perhaps he can win by sending out a Water type or something!” The announcer was laughing now.

Aly shrugged and tossed up her hands, looking up and around her with a mix of anger and confusion on her face. “Whose side is this guy on??”

Gary returned Charizard and grabbed his Pokedex next.

Breloom. The Mushroom Pokemon. The evolved form of Shroomish. Do not let its short arms deceive you, as they can extend well beyond their appearance. Its fighting technique is like that of professional boxers. Its excellent footwork makes it a swift fighter.

“What else, Pokedex?” Gary insisted impatiently.

Breloom is both Grass and Fighting type.

“Right...” he whispered. With a focused face, he nodded and said strongly, “I get it.” He grabbed a Poke Ball but hesitated. “This is it. Right here. If she wants a Fight, I’ll give her one. There’s no one better. Hitmonchan, GO!” Gary tossed the Poke Ball.

Hitmonchan appeared. He raised his fists by his face, and didn’t move afterwards.

Breloom stared right back, just as motionless.

Hitmonchan moved his fists, tightening his Yellow Scarf.

Breloom started throwing jabs through the air.

“To end this match, the final time one of these Trainers is going to be battling at this League tournament, it will be between their Fighting type Pokemon!” the announcer spoke loudly but in the lowest tone Gary had heard from him the entire match. He almost sounded solemn. Serious. “These two Pokemon, just like their Trainers, seem dead serious about the conclusion to who is Pallet Town’s finest Pokemon Trainer!”

Hitmonchan started bouncing in place. “Hiiiiit...” Hitmonchan spoke low and threateningly.

Breloom didn’t say a word, no longer punching outward.

“Hitmonchan!” Gary started.

“Breloom!” Aly followed up.

Both Trainers stared each other in the eyes coldly, as if they had never met. As if they were never friends.

Foresight! Gary thought of starting off with, but seeing Aly’s eyes, he kept quiet.

Then, both Aly and Gary’s eyes widened, and they straightened up. Their expressions eased slightly, but they still held strong, competitive determination. They both nodded with sudden understanding.

The two Pokemon kept intense, ready eyes on one another.

Gary and Aly turned from each other, to their Pokemon. “GOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!”

Both Pokemon moved in on each other.

Hitmonchan got the first hit, jabbing at Breloom’s face with one punch, and then another, followed by a few flurries of punches and then a hook here and there.

Breloom was stumbling around but not taken down. Hitmonchan kept on jabbing, Breloom looking like the hits weren’t fazing it much and it was waiting for a moment to get its punches in.

Some punches from Hitmonchan were missing, but many were connecting, the crowd screaming out the name of both Pokemon, every individual showing their support for who they wanted to win, even the Trainers’ names coming through in the mix of screams.

“It looks like this battle is going to be about more than winning it, as the crowd is pitting Hitmonchan and Breloom against each other! In other words, these two Pokemon have built a personal fanbase!!” the announcer was yelling over all the noise. “The support seems about even! But only one can come out victorious!!”

Constant jabs hit Breloom, mostly from just one fist before turning into the other, returning to the first, and continuing in a mixed fashion.

Breloom was just taking the hits and following Hitmonchan around, looking like it was being toyed with.

“GET ‘EM HITMONCHAN!!” Gary smiled. “WE’VE GOT ‘EM!!”

“Breloom!! Break that jaaaab!!” Aly shouted.

Suddenly, Breloom delivered a blow! And then another!

Hitmonchan was now stumbling backwards as Breloom took over! He reached out and wrapped his arms around Breloom, holding its head in his left arm, his right arm around Breloom’s body.

Breloom wrapped him up right back.

They both were yelling at each other.

Hitmonchan shoved Breloom back. Breloom shouted at Hitmonchan, Hitmonchan answering with several blows to its face.

Breloom was stumbling again, looking like it wasn’t going to be on its feet for much longer, but it then started swinging back, Hitmonchan falling away! Aly’s Pokemon went for a couple of more punches but Hitmonchan avoided them easily and socked Breloom a few more times. Breloom swung again and missed.

Hitmonchan punched Breloom in the face. He didn’t let up, keeping up the punches. An uppercut. A jab. A hook, uppercut, jab, and Breloom dropped!

The crowd went mad.

“BRELOOM IS DOWN!!” the announcer raved.

“BRELOOOOOOOOMM!!!!” Aly belted.

“YEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHH!!!!” Gary cheered.

Hitmonchan backed up, raising a fist to the cheering fans as he looked to everyone.

“GO AFTER HIM!!” Aly urged her Pokemon.

Breloom got up easily enough, and Hitmonchan moved in, delivering several blows in all kinds of directions. Breloom got a furious look on its face and knocked Hitmonchan back with one punch, pushing forward with another couple of punches after that! One punch missed and it fell over, but it turned around to face the opponent. Breloom waved its hand in its own face, urging Hitmonchan to strike it.

Hitmonchan did just that. Several times.

Breloom took all of them.

“Monnn...” Hitmonchan leaned forward a little.

“HITMONCHAN!” Gary screamed. “GET OUT OF THERE!! FORESIGHT!!”

Hitmonchan’s eyes were closed, breathing hard.

He needs a break, Gary knew.

Hitmonchan looked down on Breloom and backed up.

Breloom nodded and turned his back on Hitmonchan, walking away.

Hitmonchan reached out and shoved the back of Breloom’s head. “Chan!”

Breloom whipped around and reached out with one elongated arm to shove Hitmonchan, pushing him back just a couple of steps.

There were boos from the crowd along with cheers.

“I’m gonna say that the blood just got bad between these two!” the announcer was saying. “The two seem to have enough mutual respect for a break! Hitmonchan are known to be hard to train in long combat, and Breloom is respecting that, backing away as Hitmonchan recovers! But Hitmonchan seems to want to prove his superiority and is continuing to taunt Breloom! Interestingly, the Trainers have barely given a single order! This seems to indeed be a long awaited battle that goes back a while between these two Trainers, and likely their Pokemon!”

You would think so, looking at these two, Gary admitted. But that’s not it at all, is it? He looked to Aly.

Her eyes were on Breloom.

Gary caught Hitmonchan as he fell over. “Hitmonchan! Good round! Good round!” He lightly tapped the side of his face, smiling. “You’re killing it out there!” He looked over at Aly again.

She was leant over by her Pokemon, speaking loudly enough for Gary to hear. “You’ve taken a lot of hits out there. Can you keep going?”

Breloom spoke to Aly, looking absolutely exhausted.

Aly just nodded.

“Breloom’s gotta be in great shape to withstand that butchering!” the announcer went on.

“You okay? You took a couple of punches there,” Gary nodded.

“Hitmonchan,” Hitmonchan shook his head.

“If you’re okay then you need to finish that thing off already!” Gary insisted.

Aly was speaking to Breloom, a fist waving at her Pokemon.

“Don’t let up on that thing! Treat it like a threat!” Gary spoke sharply. “He’s dangerous!”

“Hitmonchan! Hitmonchan!” Hitmonchan shouted in Gary’s face.

“YEAH? THEN GO GET HIM!” Gary shouted back.

Breloom puffed out its little chest, staring to Hitmonchan.

“He’s only a Pokemon! You can beat him!” Aly called. “You’re a fit, slick, eighty-five pound, Hoenn tank!”

Breloom nodded to its Trainer and then looked to Hitmonchan, yelling out, and it approached the opponent.

“This is it, Hitmonchan! For the crowd! The win! The victory!” Gary was so excited.

Hitmonchan moved forward, tightening his Yellow Scarf again. He quickly delivered one jab, and a couple of seconds later, there was another one. A couple of more jabs hit, but Breloom wasn’t bothered.

Warm yourself up, Gary thought. Don’t stress yourself out. Don’t wear yourself out!

Hitmonchan landed a few more hits, and then was toying with Breloom, faking some punches, wavering about, and then socking Breloom again.

Breloom seemed to be waiting for this. It swiftly moved in, catching Hitmonchan, and even Gary, off guard and punched at Hitmonchan’s face, stomach, and face some more, Hitmonchan forced to try and block some of the hits with his arms!

“Here comes Breloom again, back in action after a severe pummeling! I just can’t understand how that Pokemon is still going with so much power!” the announcer spoke.

Hitmonchan grabbed at the back of Breloom’s head. He raised one arm, waving it nonchalantly to the cheering crowd and shouting out.

Breloom kept slugging into Hitmonchan’s stomach.

Hitmonchan shoved Breloom back and taunted it. “Hitmon! Hitmon! Hitmonchan!” He looked at Breloom, waving at his own face. “Hitmonchan!”

Breloom swung and missed!

Hitmonchan had dodged and gotten around Breloom.

Breloom went after Hitmonchan, Hitmonchan taunting the Pokemon all the way.

Hitmonchan was smiling, calling out to the referee, the crowd, and then to Gary. It was like this was just a game to him. He looked drunken, swaying his shoulders around, and then he winded up one arm. “Hitmonchan!” He slugged Breloom dead in the face and didn’t let up, punching and punching, completely overwhelming Breloom until Breloom finally collapsed.

“GET UP, BRELOOM, GET UP!!” Aly cried, and even Gary could see the tears running down her cheeks.

This is what she gets, Gary thought while the announcer described the fight. She should have taken this more serious. Breloom has to go down!

Breloom was still in the game, getting to its knees. It spit on the ground before looking up spitefully at Hitmonchan.

“Hitmonchan!” Hitmonchan pointed at Breloom, yelling, clearly telling it to stay down. He then turned to the crowd and shouted out, raising a fist and pointing at them.

Gary clapped. “Get your energy up, Hitmonchan! You’re doing great!” Sorry, Aly. I hope you don’t take this too hard. We have to go all the way. Robin, I know you’re battling, or about to be soon, but you better watch this replay in your spare time. You’re next.

Breloom swung a fist in front of it in a childish anger before standing.

“The body, Breloom! The BODY!!” Aly called to her Pokemon.

Hitmonchan had both fists raised to cheers and boos, shouting at them all. He tightened his Yellow Scarf and went for Breloom.

Breloom moved in. Hitmonchan started off good enough, but Breloom fought back with its own punches!

Gary’s eyes widened and he even gasped as Breloom didn’t stop, slugging in the stomach, and then relentlessly punching Hitmonchan in the face!

His Pokemon’s head was going all over the place, and he wasn’t fighting back! It was becoming more even as Hitmonchan started knocking around Breloom, but Breloom kept going with its own punches as soon as it got the chance!

Breloom shoved Hitmonchan back and started yelling, taunting Hitmonchan!

Hitmonchan swung outward, yelling right back at Breloom!

“It looks like they’re taking their break yet again, but they’re still taunting each other!” the announcer brought up. “This has gone from a Pokemon battle, to a good old fashioned boxing match!”

And that’s exactly what happened as both Pokemon went back onto the field a little later. There were slugs from each side, grappling, all kinds of jabs and throws going around.

At one point, a loud noise and flashes of light grabbed the attention of the entire stadium.

It was Electivire! He had appeared, using Thunder to make his presence known, and also electrifying a few people closeby, including his Trainer.

Hitmonchan saw him and nodded before the battle proceeded.

“Hitmonchan again with combinations of lefts and rights to the head, lefts and rights to the head!” the announcer was going on. “Hitmonchan is piling on the points when it comes to hits, but Breloom will not go down!”

Hitmonchan was making a mess of Breloom, Breloom missing a lot of its punches, getting in only a few.

“HIT HIM!!” Aly was screaming.

Punch after punch was given to Breloom who staggered away, but wouldn’t be defeated quite yet, even though it seemed it was standing while asleep at times, as badly beaten as it looked.

Hitmonchan winded up and delivered a huge blow to Breloom’s face.

Breloom didn’t drop even from that, swinging back on Hitmonchan and then shoving him backwards! Punches were then delivered to Hitmonchan's stomach.

“There goes Breloom again with lefts and rights to the midsection! And those hurt!” the announcer was adding.

“Hold the body. Hold the body!” Aly told Breloom during one of the minute long breaks.

While Hitmonchan was devastating Breloom with his hits, his form was becoming more sloppy with fatigue, even with the breaks.

Breloom took a punch to the face, and its body jolted, but it stayed focused on Hitmonchan. Another punch leaned it back, but it stayed on its feet.

Hitmonchan waved to himself, urging Breloom to attack. He raised his fists and Breloom slugged his shoulder.

Aly screamed to her Pokemon.

Another punch went to Hitmonchan’s stomach.

Gary's face went stern watching this all happen. Hitmonchan... Gary thought.

Another punch went to Hitmonchan’s stomach, jolting the fighter’s entire body, raising him.

Aly screamed again.

Another punch to Hitmonchan’s shoulder.

Hitmonchan lunged out, wrapping his arms around Breloom’s body, Breloom grabbing him back as they stumbled together. They broke free and stumbled apart, Breloom holding up its fists, looking okay after all of that.

Hitmonchan stumbled over to Gary and Gary caught him.

“This ain’t over, Hitmonchan! THIS AIN’T OVER!!” Gary raged.

The fight continued.

Breloom was now leaving Hitmonchan all over the place, punching him hard, Hitmonchan unable to even fight back.

But then Hitmonchan shoved Breloom and started punching as well soon enough.

The hits on each side started looking a lot weaker, the fighters reaching their maximum limit. Punches were missed and the user of those missed moves fell forward, barely able to keep standing, but still delivering incredible blows when they landed, the sweat exploding off the victim’s head!

The crowd was out of control!!

The referee was even cheering for his favorite at this point, although no one could hear what name he was chanting!

“Hitmonchan, keep your hands up!” Gary yelled at his Pokemon during a break.

Hitmonchan punched, punched, and punched!

Breloom was stunned after the last hit, its entire body twisted towards the crowd around it.

Hitmonchan kept beating away at the Pokemon.

Breloom was hobbling after a bit, barely standing. He fell forward, landing onto Hitmonchan who tiredly caught him.

“His left eye is closed. Now BUST HIM!! You understand?” Gary coached his Pokemon during a quick break.

“I’VE NEVER SEEN A POKEMON BATTLE LIKE THIS IN MY ENTIRE LIFE!!!” the announcer bellowed.

It was evident that the two fighters were on their last legs, but neither would give in to the other. It was more of a street brawl than actual fighting. Punches were easily missing opponents who could hardly dodge.

Breloom’s punch was an easy miss, Hitmonchan dodging and looking in better health, though even his face was bruised and swollen. This happened yet again, Breloom swinging and missing, appearing wiped out.

After a bit, Hitmonchan had Breloom, punching at its ribs.

As the onslaught of hits from his Pokemon continued, Gary turned to the crowd.

“BRE-LOOM! BRE-LOOM! BRE-LOOM!”

Gary listened to the chants that, while they weren’t the only things being called out, they were coming through the clearest. “What...?” Gary couldn’t believe it.

Hitmonchan was knocking Breloom around.

Breloom suddenly came back swinging!

Hitmonchan refused to let up, throwing blows right back!

They seperated after a little bit.

“HE’S GONNA FALL, HITMONCHAN!!” Gary screamed at his Pokemon. “HE’S GONNA FAAAAAALL!!”

Both Pokemon stood tall.

Hitmonchan looked lazy as he moved to Breloom, but really was just dead tired.

Breloom, one eye beaten closed, also stumbled on the field.

They both punched fists with each other, Breloom punching down on Hitmonchan’s tiredly, Hitmonchan then aggressively slamming down on Breloom’s. Hitmonchan spoke, and Breloom responded, shaking its head. They backed up from each other.

Hitmonchan tightened his Yellow Scarf.

The two Pokemon came at each other.

“Here they come to the center for another bout, but this has to be the final round because I can’t imagine this going any longer!” The announcer himself sounded worn out.

Hitmonchan got the first punch, proceeding with more of them.

Breloom punched its fists together, while getting pummeled!

“NOOOOOOOWWW!!! NOOOOOOWW!!!” Aly was in hysterics.

Breloom was fighting back against Hitmonchan!

Hitmonchan stumbled backwards, getting beaten up, taking punches to the face, Breloom advancing on him. Breloom wasn’t stopping, Hitmonchan not even putting up a fight as he was being hit!

“STAY AWAY FROM IT!!!” Gary’s voice cracked.

Hitmonchan got a punch in on Breloom! His punches were weak and lazy, but Breloom was being held back by them!

This was anyone’s match!!

Hitmonchan delivered blow after blow from just one fist, the last of his energy in those punches!

“NOOW!!” Aly went.

Breloom then slugged Hitmonchan!!

Hitmonchan returned the punch!!

More punches were traded between the two!!

“HITMONCHAN HE’S DOOOOOONE!!! STOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP!!!” Gary let out at the top of his lungs.

Hitmonchan hit.

Breloom hit.

Hitmonchan punched.

Breloom punched.

Breloom punched again!

Breloom was pummeling Hitmonchan!!!

“BRELOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!” Aly screeched.

“HITMONCHAAAAAAAANN!!” Gary balled his fists.

“BRE-LOOM!!!! BRE-LOOM!!!!” the entire crowd seemed to be chanting.

Hitmonchan looked more like he was reaching out for a handshake than punches as he tried to defend himself.

Breloom let out one final punch. A left hook!

Hitmonchan’s entire body was moved and he weakly stumbled away.

Breloom’s final punch was so hard, its entire body twisted and its arm kept rising into the air, the Pokemon stumbling over!

Both Pokemon hit the ground together!!

The referee leaned in close to make his call.

Neither Pokemon was out, struggling to find the strength to get back up.

“GET UP HITMONCHAAAN!!!!” Gary commanded.

“BRELOOOM!! GOOOOOOOO!!!!” Aly pleaded.

Both Fighters were matched in stamina, each one looking desperate to rise. There was a lot of dropping on both sides as each Pokemon tried to stand, but neither was able to remain up past their knees.

“GET UP HITMONCHAN!!!” Gary continued.

The crowd couldn’t get any louder.

“BRELOOM PLEASE!!” Aly cried.

Each Pokemon managed back to their knees.

The referee got closer to both Pokemon, trying to make his decision.

Both Pokemon were so close, almost standing right back up!

“Chan...” Hitmonchan fell down to his face.

Breloom let out a loud cry, getting to its feet.

Aly shrieked the loudest shriek possible and ran onto the field as the green flag was raised to her. She didn’t care about what the referee, the announcer, the crowd, or her opponent said.

Breloom raised its arms in the air before falling against Aly, wrapping its arms around her shoulders as it nearly landed on its knees again.

“HITMONCHAN IN UNABLE TO BATTLLLLLLLLLLLLLE!!!!” the judge celebrated. “ALYSSA AND BRELOOM WIN THE MAAAAAAAAAAAAAATCH!!!!!”

The crowd was in fact louder now than EVER before!!

Gary ran onto the field and lifted his Pokemon under one arm, staring down at him in shock.

“Chan,” Hitmonchan grunted and got out of Gary’s hold and stumbled for Breloom.

The announcer was going ballistic.

Both Hitmonchan and Breloom faced each other.

Aly froze.

The referee froze.

“Was a mistake made?? Hitmonchan is back up!!” the announcer pointed out.

The crowd didn’t go silent, but they did quiet down some.

Breloom grabbed Hitmonchan’s wrist.

And raised it!

The crowd went absolutely bananas.

Hitmonchan stared at Breloom, shocked, and then looked around at the hyper crowd. A stern look came over his face before looking back at Breloom. He then used his other hand to grab Breloom’s wrist and freed himself. Both his hands then held Breloom’s wrist and kept it raised.

The crowd got crazy, screaming, stomping, and celebrating such positivity between the two.

“IN A SHOW OF SPORTSMANSHIP, BOTH BOXERS SHOW THEIR SUPPORT FOR EACH OTHER, ACCEPTING THE RESULTS HUMBLY!!!!” the announcer told everyone. “I COULD CRY HAVING BEEN WITNESS TO SUCH A BATTLE!!!”

Both Pokemon’s arms fell and they hugged each other briefly. Hitmonchan rubbed Breloom’s head before they both turned from each other and walked to their Trainers.

Aly held her Pokemon as it got to her.

Gary ran to Hitmonchan and held him in his arms, tears running down the Trainer’s face now.

Aly, beaming like a fresh flashlight, looked outward to the crowd. “YO ADRIAN, WE DID IIT!!!”

Gary stared at her, confused.

She looked down to Gary, still smiling. Nothing smug. Just a beautiful smile.

Gary wiped at his eyes, admiring how she looked in that moment. He considered how pretty she looked. Has her hair been done or something? It looks... Done.

Aly’s face softened, easing up. Her eyes widened. “Gary...?”

His eyes widened.

“Gary...” Aly spoke softly.

Very uncharacteristically of her, Gary found her face to suddenly seem rather vulnerable. Sensitivity seemed to be seeping through quite easily. His mouth hung open slightly as he tried to respond, but was unable. To Gary, it seemed Aly was getting even closer. But that couldn’t be. Right? he wondered. He swallowed, almost ninety percent sure their faces were closer than they had been just seconds ago, and he wasn’t sure if his own face was also moving towards hers. Aly... he thought. What’s...?

“Gary! Aly??” June had cried out, appearing to their surprise.

“Huh??” Both Gary and Aly pulled back, staring at each other in shock.

“Gary?” Aly asked again.

Gary blinked and shook his head. “Uh... Who’s Adrian??” he thought up quickly.

“Oh, a really cool girl I met way back when I started my journey!” Aly smiled. “She’s such a bad ass! I’d love if all you guys could meet her! I feel like we’re sisters!”

Gary rolled his eyes. “So there’s two of you out there?” he smirked. The smile dropped away, along with his head and his arms around Hitmonchan.

“You’ve gotta respect me, now,” Aly finally taunted. But she stopped there. “It was a great fight, wasn’t it?” She held out her hand.

Gary looked up and into Aly’s face. Makeup? Maybe not, but there’s something there. Why does she look so...? Gary shook his head and grabbed her hand, and they shook.

Aly smiled.

Gary smiled back.

The crowd suddenly got a lot quieter, and screams could be heard.

Aly’s smile dropped at something happening behind Gary, her eyes wide. She released his hand, her mouth wide open.

Breloom squinted at whatever was going on, too.

Hitmonchan and Gary turned around. They both gasped.

“THERE IS A PROBLEM ON THE FIELD!! WHAT IN THE WORLD IS GOING ON???!” the announcer called out.

There were security officers laying on the ground, their bodies twitching and flinching while sparking from what seemed to be electricity.

And it definitely was, proven by the Electivire stomping across the field.

This was June’s Electivire, proven by June also on the ground, unable to move as her body sparked.

Electivire stomped towards the four and stopped. He leered at Breloom and growled lowly.

Breloom didn’t respond, staring back cautiously.

Electivire then turned to Hitmonchan.

Hitmonchan’s eyes closed and he lowered his head. “Chan...”

“Electivire...” Electivire leaned down to Hitmonchan’s level, and he wrapped his large arms around Gary’s Fighting type.

Gary’s breath was taken away by the shock of seeing that.

In seconds, Hitmonchan’s body was jumping lightly as he gave out little whimpers.

Claps started to sound off from the audience.

Gary looked around to see an amazing sight.

The crowd wasn’t screaming. They weren’t going wild. Rather, they all were clapping with a few whistles and some cheers. It wasn’t the crazy party it was when the battle was going on and had ended. It was a more endearing display of respect and support, and a lot of sympathy was in the air.

It wasn’t entirely clear to the audience what was going on like it was to Gary and June, but everyone knew this meant something.

Everyone knew that fight between Breloom and Hitmonchan was something that was rarely ever seen.

Everyone knew this random Electivire meant a lot to Hitmonchan and had come out for that reason.

Because everyone knew Hitmonchan was now crying.

*

Author’s Note:

I’d like to give a small homage to Sylvestor Stallone’s Rocky franchise, specifically Rocky 2, which inspired, enormously, how the final battle between Hitmonchan and Breloom went. Do watch the final Rocky 2 match on Youtube or elsewhere to truly get where I was going with the battle. In fact, go watch the whole series, lol. And don’t forget Creed.

And thank you, readers. Your comments, views, and support through follows and other means, is the world to me. I appreciate you all. Stayed tuned for more.